Thru-hikers have many shared expressions. "The trail provides" is one in particular that is often repeated. If you hear it, you know a hiker's need for food, water, a ride, or medical attention was fulfilled unexpectedly, almost magically. It's said so frequently, we thru-hikers take it as trail gospel.
Yet here is another truth: The trail doesn't care.
The trail is indifferent to your needs if you are cold, wet, or thirsty. It couldn't care less about your feet covered in blisters. A mountain you must climb or a sudden snowstorm pays no heed to your feelings and physical condition.
Yes, a magical moment may happen to pull you through one of those circumstances. You might get the help you need, but there’s no guarantee you will. That's when you have to suck it up. You’re on your own to get through what the trail has thrown at you.